Permitted Development Checker
Are you familiar with what Permitted Development is already?
Use this interactive Permitted Development checker to see whether your property benefits from Certificate, Prior Approval or requires full planning permission.
Permitted development explained
Permitted development rights are a national set of rules, created by the Government, that allow you to extend or renovate your home without a full planning application, as long as you stay within defined limits.
They cover a range of projects – from loft conversions to rear and side extensions, garage conversions and, in some cases, additional storeys – but the detail is technical and easy to get wrong.
If your home and proposal both meet the rules, PD can be the fastest way to get approval. If not, you will need planning permission instead.
We’ve designed this tool to help you understand whether your project might fall under Permitted Development.
Where in the UK is your home?
Is your home within a conservation area?
Before we show your conservation area result…
Share a few details and we’ll email you a summary of your result plus guidance specific to conservation areas.
Can I use Permitted Development (PD)?
PD rights are more restricted in conservation areas — but may still be applicable in some cases.
Some of the usual allowances for lofts and extensions are reduced or removed entirely. Design, scale and materials all need to follow your conservation area guidance and may still require a full planning application.
Before relying on PD, we would review your drawings against both the national legislation and your local conservation policies.
FAQs
Why would I use AC Design Solution?
We’re a CIAT Chartered practice with in-house structural engineers and experience working in conservation areas across the UK.
What happens next?
We check your property, conservation status and proposal, then advise whether PD, a Lawful Development Certificate or a full planning application is the safest route.
Can you manage permissions for me?
Yes – we prepare and submit the application, respond to council queries and coordinate with your builder so the design is fully buildable.
Is your property a listed building?
Before we show your listed building result…
Listed buildings are tightly controlled. Share your details and we’ll send a summary of your result together with heritage-led guidance.
Permitted Development for listed buildings
Most meaningful changes to listed buildings – including lofts and extensions – require Listed Building Consent and often a full planning application. Standard PD rights are heavily restricted.
We can help you shape a heritage-led design and manage discussions with your conservation officer before any application is submitted.
FAQs
Why would I use AC Design Solution?
Our team has experience working with heritage consultants and conservation officers across the UK. We balance modern layouts with the fabric and character of the listed building.
What permissions will I need?
Most projects will require both Listed Building Consent and either planning permission or a Lawful Development Certificate. We can advise which route is appropriate and prepare the full pack.
Can you manage the process?
Yes – we prepare drawings, heritage statements and planning documents, submit the applications and respond to council queries until a decision is made.
What type of property do you want to improve?
What kind of project would you like to complete?
Before we show your project result…
Share a few details and we’ll email you a summary of your result together with next steps for your chosen project type.